Liverpool chasing star German defender

LIVERPOOL have reportedly launched a move for Germany international Antonio Rudiger.

The central defender is currently on loan at Roma from Stuttgart but the Italian outfit have a compulsory purchase option worth £7million this summer and could make a quick profit by immediately selling him on.

Rudiger, who has represented his country nine times since making his debut two years ago, has been a permanent fixture for Roma this season, scoring two goals in 29 league appearances, while also playing in all of the club’s Champions League matches.

Liverpool could be set for a battle, however, as incoming Chelsea boss Antonio Conte also fancies the 23-year-old and sees him as an ideal replacement for John Terry who looks certain to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of this season.

CalcioMercatoWeb claim: “Liverpool have inquired about Rudiger’s availability and are ready to offer around £15m for the German defender.

“Reds boss Jurgen Klopp coached against Rudiger’s Stuttgart teams during his tenure at Dortmund and is fond of the 23-year old star.”